This article describes some of the car safety systems in use and under development. The market comprises three basic groups of products: seat belts, air bags and sensors, of which air bags and sensors are still developing, the incentives being end user demand and government legislation. Advanced air bags require a sensor in the seat to enable safe deployment according to the weight and position of the person. Publicity surrounding rollover incidence has led to the further development of curtain air bags which remain inflated after the original impact, and external air bags for pedestrian impact protection are being tested. The article includes sections on the major manufacturers in vehicle safety, the concepts involved, and the possible future direction of the technology.
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